Almost 40% of all burglaries are committed by sneak thieves

Council bosses and police are bringing in new measures to tackle the problem, which accounts for 40% of all break-ins in Hartlepool.

The town has now launched one of its biggest ever anti-burglary campaigns.

The campaign has even led to the creation of a new animated crime fighter - in the shape of a cartoon character called Willie Walk-In.

The government-funded Safer Hartlepool Partnership is offering to supply and fit a range of household security devices, including locks, bolts and intruder alarms.

Determined burglars

Alison Mawson, Hartlepool Council's head of community safety and prevention, said: "Statistics show that walk-in burglaries account for nearly 40% of all break-ins that occur in the town.

"So this campaign to encourage people to always lock their doors - even when they are at home - has the potential to really make a difference.

"It's a fact of life that many residents become complacent over security whilst in their own homes because they don't think that burglars will take the risk of entering and being caught.

"However, it can take just a few seconds for determined burglars to sneak-in and help themselves to property."

Residents' groups can apply for help up until 2 April by contacting Hartlepool Borough Council.